Taking the plunge...

[eskimos44]

Notified by work last fall that I will be giving up my work truck and will need to commute(1 hour) into work everyday...This will take effect in the next few months.

Research led me here and have decided I will be buying a Vibe...I came to this conclusion by the numerous appraisals, gas mileage, and the typical repair history of these cars.

I may have located the one I want...

2005 AWD Moon/Tunes package with 134,000 miles on it...1 owner...They are asking $5600 for it...This vehicle is 3 hours away and I won't have a chance to have it inspected until after I purchase it...Is this something I should jump on? Its the exact one I've been looking for, but would prefer less miles on it...Is it cool to ask for VIN, so I can run a Carfax on it before I drive the 3 hours? Thanks...

[Nasmfell]

In a word, NO. Key sentence you mentioned "i won't have a chance to have it inspected until after I purchase it" If you can't get it inspected before buying, pass it up. Too much of a risk in buying something that needs expensive repairs to take a chance. If you have done research, you'd know that the rear differential fluid in the AWD would need to be checked and/or replaced to avoid rear differential issues. It makes the most sense to find a car (even if it is not a Vibe) near you, so you can take your time and have it checked out. A good suggestion, depending on if you're looking for private seller or dealer, is to go no more than 10 miles from where you're at. Good luck.

[Salsa Guy]

You need to inspect the rear diff seals and make sure they are NOT seeping/leaking, might want to look at transfer case also but they are not know for issues. If they are I'd check the level in in the rear diff if you can't touch the fluid with your pinky finger you don't want it.

[tpollauf]

Does it need to be AWD ? Location please. This way if some of us just happen to be near you, we could assist you in finding you the perfect Vibe

[eskimos44]

Thanks for all the responses... I am in central Minnesota. The car is in Wisconsin. I am hesitant about not having a vehicle checked out before buying. The good thing, I still have a few months before I need to purchase a Vibe.